What causes ED (erectile dysfunction)?

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a health problem that many men may experience. It is caused by a complex combination of physical, psychological, and lifestyle factors. This article details the major causes of ED, dividing them into physical, psychological, lifestyle, aging, and complex factors. Understanding how each factor affects the process of erection will help you find more effective ways to cope.

1. Physical causes (organic ED)

Vascular problems:.
- Atherosclerosis: Atherosclerosis can result in insufficient blood flow to the penis, making it difficult to achieve an erection.Diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking are risk factors.
- Peripheral arterial disease: a medical condition that impedes blood flow to the extremities and penis, which can cause ED.
Nervous System Problems:.
- Spinal cord injury: Damage to the spinal cord can block nerve signals from the brain to the penis, causing ED.
- Diabetic neuropathy: nerve damage due to diabetes can interfere with nerve signaling to the penis.
Hormonal abnormalities:.
- Low testosterone: low testosterone can cause decreased libido and ED.
- Hypothyroidism or Excess: Abnormal thyroid hormones can be associated with ED.
Trauma and surgery:.
- Pelvic or penile trauma: trauma can damage blood vessels or nerves, resulting in ED.
- Prostate surgery: Surgery or radiation therapy for prostate cancer can cause ED.

2. Psychological causes (psychogenic ED)

Stress
- Stress from work, family problems, or relationships can suppress sexual arousal and cause ED.
Uneasy.
- Anxiety about sexual activity and loss of confidence in one’s own sexual performance can cause ED.
Depression:.
- Depression can decrease libido and contribute to ED. Medications for depression may also cause ED.
Trauma:.
- ED may be caused by past sexual trauma or abuse.

3. Lifestyle and environmental factors

Smoking:
- Smoking constricts blood vessels and worsens blood flow, thus increasing the risk of ED.
Alcohol:
- Excessive alcohol consumption not only causes temporary erectile dysfunction, but also increases the risk of ED in the long run.
Drug use:
- Some medications (e.g., antidepressants, antihypertensive medications, antipsychotics) have side effects that can cause ED.
Obesity:
- Obesity increases the risk of ED because it disrupts hormonal balance and adversely affects blood flow.
Exercise deficiencies.
- Lack of exercise can negatively affect blood flow and cardiovascular health and cause ED.

4. Adding to one’s age

Adding to one’s age:
- As age increases, erectile function may naturally decline. This is related to a decrease in the elasticity of blood vessels and hormonal changes.

5. Key Factors of Complexity

Often multiple factors are involved:.
- There is no single cause of ED, but rather a combination of physical and psychological factors. For example, a physical problem may be the initial cause, and then psychological anxiety may exacerbate the ED.

Summary

ED is a complex condition caused by a number of different factors. Physical problems, psychological stress, lifestyle influences, age-related changes, and even a combination of these factors can seriously affect erectile function. If symptoms appear, it is important to first seek medical advice. Treatment based on an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward improving ED. By incorporating appropriate treatment methods such as medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modification according to individual causes, ED can be effectively addressed. HIRO CLINIC MEN’S also offers consultation for ED problems. We will be happy to suggest a treatment that suits your symptoms, so please feel free to contact us for more information.